These flavorful steak tacos are made with perfectly marinated and grilled steak, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas. With a smoky char and a hint of spice, they’re a quick and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality taco night at home.
Contents
Ingredients
For the Steak Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- ½ cup diced white onion
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices. Place the steak in a shallow dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours to let the flavors develop. If marinating overnight, reduce the lime juice slightly to avoid over-tenderizing the meat.
2. Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or a few minutes longer for medium doneness. If using a meat thermometer, aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare and 140-145°F for medium. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes to retain its juices.
3. Warm the Tortillas
While the steak rests, warm your tortillas. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast each tortilla for 30-45 seconds per side until lightly charred and pliable. Alternatively, you can warm them directly over an open flame for a few seconds per side. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel or placing them in a tortilla warmer.
4. Assemble the Tacos
Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Fill each tortilla with slices of grilled steak, then top with diced onion, fresh cilantro, and tomatoes. Add avocado slices, crumbled cheese, and any extra toppings you like. Serve with lime wedges for an extra pop of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Choosing the Right Cut: Flank and skirt steak are the best choices for steak tacos because of their bold flavor and quick cooking time. If using a thicker cut like ribeye or sirloin, adjust the cooking time and slice thinly for the best texture.
- Slicing the Steak Properly: Always cut against the grain to ensure each bite is tender. Cutting with the grain will make the meat chewier.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: No grill? No problem! You can pan-sear the steak in a hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side or broil it in the oven for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Marinade Variations: For a different flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a teaspoon of chipotle in adobo for a smoky kick. A touch of honey or brown sugar can balance out the heat with a bit of sweetness.
- Tortilla Options: Corn tortillas provide an authentic street taco experience, but flour tortillas work well if you prefer a softer texture. For extra flavor, brush tortillas with a little oil before heating.
Serving Suggestions
- With Side Dishes: Pair these steak tacos with Mexican rice, refried beans, or charred street corn (elote) for a well-rounded meal. A side of grilled vegetables or a fresh slaw adds a nice contrast to the rich steak.
- Extra Toppings: Go beyond the basics with pickled onions, thinly sliced radishes, grilled jalapeños, or a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce. For a spicy touch, add a few drops of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa verde.
- Pairing Ideas: These tacos are perfect with a cold margarita, fresh agua fresca, or a crisp Mexican lager. For a non-alcoholic option, try a hibiscus or tamarind agua fresca.
- Make It a Taco Bar: Set up a DIY taco bar with different toppings and sauces so everyone can customize their tacos to their liking.
These steak tacos bring together smoky, citrusy, and savory flavors in every bite—perfect for a casual dinner, Taco Tuesday, or a summer cookout!
I have been smoking and grilling meat from an early age and enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise through the hundreds of articles I have written about BBQ. I hope to make everyone’s BBQ journey that little bit easier.